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Wild and Natural Areas

Pennsylvania’s state forest system includes dozens of special wild and natural areas set aside to protect unique or unusual biologic, geologic, scenic and historical features or to showcase outstanding examples of the state’s major forest communities.

Natural areas are “managed” by nature and direct human intervention is limited. They:

  • Provide places for scenic observation
  • Protect special plant and animal communities
  • Conserve outstanding examples of natural beauty

Wild areas are generally extensive tracts managed to protect the forest’s wild character and to provide backcountry recreational opportunities.

While Clear Creek State Forest does not have any designated wild or natural areas, it does contain areas that are specially managed.

The Kennerdell Tract is home to a Wild Plant Sanctuary and a High Conservation Value Forest.  Both designations help support threatened or endangered species.  Also in the Kennerdell Tract, Dennison Run is an exceptional value stream with a naturally reproducing population of native brook trout.